Pathways for introduction and dispersal of invasive Aedes mosquito species in Europe: a review

Abstract: In the last decades, Aedes invasive mosquito species (AIMs) have arrived in Europe from overseas, introduced via different pathways. Several species such as Aedes albopictus, Ae. japonicus and Ae. koreicus were introduced, built populations, and expanded their distribution into new regions. The introduction and establishment of AIMs in Europe is a risk to public health, due to the ability of these mosquitoes to transmit diverse pathogens of vector-borne diseases. The objective of this manuscript is to review
knowledge of pathways associated with the introduction and dispersal of AIMs in Europe. The identification of pathways for introduction of AIMs is critical to decide on surveillance strategies needed to reduce the risk and control future introductions. Four
main routes are identified and discussed: the passive transport of AIMs via (1) the trade of used tyres, (2) the trade of Lucky bamboo plant cuttings, (3) vehicles (traffic by road, airplanes, and sea), as well as (4) the active natural dispersal of AIMs. We conclude
that the trade of used tyres remains the main pathway for long distance transportation and introduction of AIMs into and within Europe. Furthermore, passive transport by road in ground vehicles (e.g. car, truck) represents the major driving force for dispersion from already established populations. Journal of the European Mosquito Control Association 38: 1 – 10, 2020